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Charleston has a well-earned reputation as one of the most historic and beautiful cities in the country. Among travelers, it's also increasingly known for superior accommodations, ranging from lovingly restored mansions converted into atmospheric bed-and-breakfasts to boutique inns to world-class hotels, all found in the residential blocks of the historic downtown peninsula. Most are within walking distance of the shops, restaurants, and museums spread throughout the nearly 800-acre district.
Chain hotels pepper the busy, car-trafficked areas like Meeting Street. In addition, there are chain properties in the nearby areas of West Ashley, Mount Pleasant, and North Charleston, where you’ll find plenty of Holiday Inns, Hampton Inns, Marriott Courtyards, and La Quinta Inns. Mount Pleasant is considered the most upscale suburb; North Charleston is the least, but if you need to be close to the airport, are participating in events at the Coliseum complex, or aim to shop the outlet malls there, it is a practical, less expensive alternative.
Overall, a visit to Charleston is a lifetime memory, and to know it is to love it. The city’s scorecard for repeat visitors is phenomenal. Charleston is a port of embarkation for cruise ships, and most cruisers wisely plan on a pre- or post-cruise stay. This premier wedding and honeymoon destination also draws many couples back for their anniversaries.
When The Ryder opened in 2021, repurposing the old King Charles Inn, it immediately endeared itself to locals thanks to its poolside bar, Little Palm. On steamy summer days, it's the place to kick back with a cocktail. A stay here puts you close to the action—and the City Market. Rooms sport natural and muted tones, and furniture with surprisingly few right angles, creating a relaxed aura.
